'Built on speed, precision and performance': Northern Ireland brand launches limited-edition NW200 watch to mark timing partnership

Belfast watch brand Nomadic Watches has launched the limited-edition Apex NW200 Chronograph to mark their appointment as the Official Timing Partner of the North West 200.

Based on the Céad 126, the watch will be limited to 50 pieces, and takes direct inspiration from the event and its modern benchmark – the 126mph lap set by Glenn Irwin, the first rider to break the 125mph barrier at the North West 200. The 126 naming also references Joey Dunlop’s 26 Isle of Man TT wins, linking two defining figures in Irish road racing.

The North West 200 (NW200) is one of the world’s premier motorcycle road racing events, held annually each May on Northern Ireland’s north coast.

First staged in 1929, the event takes place on the famous 8.9-mile “Triangle” circuit connecting Portstewart, Coleraine and Portrush, using closed public roads. Renowned for its high-speed, wheel-to-wheel racing format, the NW200 regularly sees riders exceed speeds of 200 mph, making it one of the fastest and most thrilling races in the sport. Attracting over 150,000 spectators and a global television audience, it is the largest outdoor sporting event in Northern Ireland and a key fixture in the international road racing calendar.

The Apex NW200 introduces race-specific design features. The dial incorporates a subtle outline of the North West 200 circuit, with the official NW200 logo positioned beneath the day-date display. A racing stripe runs through the left sub dial, reinforcing its connection to speed and timing. Nomadic’s signature yellow tachymeter hand has been replaced with red, echoing the look and intensity of a motorbike speedometer. The watch also features a signature black Rally strap, crafted by The Strap Tailor, finished with an additional red keeper for a subtle racing accent.

Designed with a focus on legibility and function, the Apex NW200 Edition prioritises clarity under pressure. Every detail, from dial layout to visual cues, is informed by the pace and demands of road racing.

Peter McAuley, Nomadic founder, explained: “This is a significant step for Nomadic. The North West 200 is one of the most important road races in Northern Ireland, built on speed, precision and performance - the same principles behind our chronograph. Being named official timing partner puts us at the centre of the event. Linking that with the Céad 126 and Glenn Irwin’s 126mph lap makes it a natural fit.”

As part of the partnership, five watches will be presented to the winners of each NW200 qualifying race, directly linking the timepiece to on-track performance.